If you’re a senior in Canada relying on government benefits, December 2025 could bring welcome news. A potential increase in Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payments is on the table, with some eligible individuals expected to receive up to $2,233 per month.
While this amount reflects the combined maximum for both programs, not everyone will qualify — but for those who do, payments are set to arrive before the end of the year.
Deposit
The Canadian government and Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) have approved a formal payment schedule for OAS and CPP recipients through December 2025. This announcement comes after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau introduced a proposal earlier in 2025 to enhance financial support for seniors, especially in response to inflation-related cost-of-living challenges.
While the proposed $2,233 monthly payment hasn’t been officially finalized across the board, the amount is based on the maximum you can receive if you qualify for both CPP and OAS at their upper limits. It’s expected that eligible seniors could see this full amount deposited directly into their accounts on December 23 or December 26, 2025, depending on their eligibility and banking details.
Overview
Here’s a quick summary of the payment structure:
| Benefit | Managing Authority | Amount (Max) | CRA Payment Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPP + OAS Combined | Canada Revenue Agency | $2,233/month | December 23 or 26, 2025 |
| CPP Only | CRA | Up to $1,433 | Monthly (dates below) |
| OAS Only (75+) | CRA | Up to $800.44 | Monthly |
This increased support aims to help seniors with rising costs — from medication and food to rent and utility bills — especially during the expensive holiday season.
Eligibility
To receive the maximum $2,233 per month in December, recipients must meet several key criteria, depending on whether they are applying for CPP, OAS, or both.
CPP Requirements:
- Be at least 60 years old
- Have contributed to the CPP for at least one year
- To receive the maximum amount, you must have contributed at the maximum level for 39–40 years
OAS Requirements for Residents in Canada:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
OAS Requirements for Canadians Abroad:
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident on the day before leaving Canada
- Have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18
These rules ensure only long-term contributors or residents get access to the full payment — though partial payments are available for those with shorter contribution histories.
Schedule
Knowing exactly when your payment is arriving helps with budgeting, especially in retirement. Below are the approved CPP & OAS payment dates for 2025, confirmed by CRA.
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 29, 2025 |
| February | February 26, 2025 |
| March | March 26, 2025 |
| April | April 28, 2025 |
| May | May 27, 2025 |
| June | June 26, 2025 |
| July | July 29, 2025 |
| August | August 27, 2025 |
| September | September 26, 2025 |
| October | October 28, 2025 |
| November | November 26, 2025 |
| December | December 23 or 26, 2025 |
The December payments are especially important, given the timing around Christmas. Payments are expected to fall on December 23 or 26, depending on processing timelines and bank schedules.
Claiming
If you’re eligible and haven’t yet enrolled for CPP or OAS payments, here’s how to start the process and ensure your December payment doesn’t slip through the cracks:
- Visit www.canada.ca.
- Navigate to the “Old Age Security” or “Canada Pension Plan” section.
- Log in using your My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
- Complete the online application with accurate personal details, including your SIN.
- Upload all required documents to verify identity and eligibility.
- Submit and await confirmation from CRA.
This process may take several weeks, so apply early to ensure you’re included in the next payment cycle.
Fact Check
So, is everyone getting $2,233/month starting in December? Not exactly. According to available data, the figure is a combined maximum — not a new flat rate. Here’s the breakdown:
- CPP max (at age 65, full contributions): ~$1,433/month
- OAS max (age 75+): ~$800.44/month
Together, they total $2,233.44, which is where this number comes from. So while the payout is real for some, it’s not a guaranteed amount for every senior — it depends on your age, contribution history, and residency status.
FAQs
When is the December 2025 CPP & OAS payment?
Payments are set for December 23 or 26, 2025.
Is the $2,233 a new flat rate for everyone?
No, it’s the combined max of CPP and OAS for some seniors.
How can I qualify for full CPP benefits?
You need 39–40 years of max CPP contributions.
Who manages CPP & OAS payments?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) oversees these payments.
Can Canadians abroad receive OAS?
Yes, if they lived in Canada for 20+ years after age 18.
